In a first, India has received a set of guidelines to help people control high cholesterol levels. Cardiologists worldwide, including India, have been following the 2019 guidelines by the European Society of Cardiology. Now, the Cardiolgocial Society of India (CSI), a 22-member committee, released the first-ever guidelines on July 4 for dyslipidemia (high cholesterol) management in the country. Read on to know more about this condition, and the various ways in which you can manage it.
Dyslipidemia: What Is It?
Dyslipidemia is a medical condition where there are abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, such as high cholesterol or triglycerides. This imbalance can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. It is often managed with diet, exercise, and medication.
This condition is characterised by the high total cholesterol in the blood including elevated LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol), high triglycerides, and low HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol).
Several factors contribute to dyslipidemia, such as genetics, lifestyle habits, and existing health problems. High levels of LDL cholesterol, known as ‘bad’ cholesterol, and low levels of HDL cholesterol, known as ‘good’ cholesterol, are typical indicators of this condition. Poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, diabetes, and smoking can also lead to dyslipidemia.
Dyslipidemia, known as the “silent killer” since it has no symptoms, is a key marker for cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks, strokes and peripheral artery disease.
Dyslipidemia is diagnosed through a lipid profile blood test that measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. Sometimes, medication is needed to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart problems.
How To Get Your Lipid Profile?
Getting your lipid profile checked is important for assessing heart health and overall wellness. By examining different lipid levels in your blood, doctors can understand your risk of heart diseases and related issues.
Importance of Lipid Profile Testing: Cholesterol and triglycerides are crucial for bodily functions, but an imbalance can raise the chances of heart disease and stroke. Lipid profile tests can identify these imbalances, helping doctors to suggest ways to lower the risk of heart problems.
Components of a Lipid Profile: A typical lipid profile measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides. Total cholesterol is the overall cholesterol in your blood. LDL contributes to plaque buildup in arteries, while HDL helps remove it. Triglycerides are fats that can also affect heart health.
Interpreting Your Lipid Profile Results: Knowing your lipid profile is vital for better heart health. Total cholesterol should be under 200 mg/dL, LDL below 100 mg/dL for high-risk individuals, HDL above 60 mg/dL, and triglycerides under 150 mg/dL. Consult your doctor to understand your results and create a plan to manage your lipid levels.
Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Lipid Profile
Apart from regular lipid tests, you can maintain good lipid levels by eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, exercising regularly, keeping a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol. These steps can help support heart health and lower the risk of heart disease.